It is now increasingly recognized that mathematics is not a neutral value-free subject. Rather, mathematics can challenge students' taken-for-granted realities and promote action. This article describes two issues, namely deforestation and income inequality. These were specifically chosen because they can be related to a range of calculus concepts including rates of change, optimization, Riemann sums, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, and partial derivatives. The aim is to give ideas about how an issue may be examined from different mathematical perspectives. The impact of discussing relevant issues in the calculus classroom is described through student reflections and course evaluation.